Air Dispersion Modeling Training

Trinity Consultants teaches training courses on air dispersion modeling theory and practical application to EHS professionals worldwide.

AERMOD Modeling Computer Lab

Trinity Consultants offers this 2 day course to provide hands-on instruction on the use of AERMOD, the U.S. EPA's preferred computer model recommended for estimation of ambient impacts of air pollutants emitted from industrial sources. This course reviews the scientific theory behind these dispersion models with an emphasis on formulating and conducting an air quality analysis from start to finish utilizing the refined model options of AERMOD, its meteorological processor AERMET, and terrain processor AERMAP. During the course, students will use BREEZE modeling software to analyze case studies and gain practical experience in processing meteorological and geophysical data and source inputs to the models, running and analyzing model output, and post-processing results to visualize and document predicted impacts.Course completion will enable attendees to:

• Understand the basics of the AERMOD model, input data, and model options
• Carry out a typical AERMOD modeling analysis
• Produce and correctly interpret tables, plots, and other output from AERMOD

Dispersion Modeling for Managers

This 1-day course provides environmental managers, plant managers, and others with air quality responsibilities with a broad understanding of air dispersion modeling as a tool for compliance studies or permitting submittals. The course covers the fundamental modeling concepts as well as regulatory requirements for state and federal permitting. Screening and refined modeling tools are introduced. The courses combines short lecture and interactive classroom example problem sets for maximum comprehension.

This course includes hands-on exercises requiring the use of a computer. Attendees should bring a laptop or notify the instructor if they are unable to do so.

• Regulatory requirements for air dispersion modeling (NAAQS, PSD increments, significant air impacts, Class I analysis)
• New short-term SO2 and NO2 NAAQS
• PM2.5 issues and possible solutions
• U.S. EPA’s ongoing efforts to update models
• Modeling best practices and common pitfalls

Fundamentals of Air Dispersion Modeling

This intensive 2-day course is designed for entry level engineers, dispersion modelers, and meteorologists or others wanting to deepen their understanding of air dispersion modeling principles. Concise lectures supplemented by multi-media example problem sets, a short hands-on introduction to computer-based modeling software, and group discussions are used to maximize comprehension. Students learn how models incorporate the effects of transport and dispersion, atmospheric turbulence, stack characterization, building downwash, and terrain impacts with emphasis on U.S. EPA models such as AERMOD, AERSCREEN, and a brief introduction to CALPUFF, CAMx, and CMAQ. Participants learn about:

• Modeling theory, U.S. EPA models, and model selection
• Role and sources of meteorology
• Model use and interpretation within regulatory and non-regulatory contexts of application

Practical Air Dispersion Modeling Workshop

This 3-day course is designed for environmental professionals with little dispersion modeling experience who wish to use the AERMOD model or to better understand AERMOD results prepared by others. It is similar to the two-day AERMOD Modeling Computer Lab course, with additional focus on developing a strong understanding of model fundamentals. Course topics include Gaussian model behavior, source characterization, building and terrain data, and results interpretation. The course includes hands-on modeling exercises and interactive lecture sessions. Course completion will enable attendees to:

• Develop a strong understanding of the AERMOD model, its input data, and model options
• Carry out a typical AERMOD modeling analysis
• Produce and correctly interpret tables, plots, and other output from AERMOD